Stem Cell Transplantation: Genetic Counselors as a Critical Part of the Process

Genetic counselors bring unique and important expertise to health care teams that serve patients with genetic conditions treated by hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Genetic counselors are master’s-trained allied health care professionals who work in collaboration with physicians to guide patients through the complexities of heritable conditions and emerging technologies, including through the diagnostic, HSCT treatment, and post-HSCT processes. This article will review the history of HSCT for genetic conditions, the role of the genetic counselor throughout the HSCT process, and the evolving and expanding role of genetic counselors in current and future stem cell therapies.